Butterflies of Vietnam: Vacation in Vietnam and Count the Butterflies

In the last decade, Vietnam has developed a very popular tourism industry. Today you can find luxury resorts, exotic cultural tours and amazing wildlife expeditions. If you are look for a Vietnam vacation that will not only allow you to experience what this country has to offer, but will also allow you to make a difference in the world, then consider registering for the Butterflies of Vietnam expedition.

Butterflies of Vietnam

In the heart of the Tam Dao National Park in Vietnam resides a myriad of butterfly species. These insects are beautiful, graceful and an indicator species. As an indicator species, the health of their population is a good gage for how healthy the rest of the ecosystem is. For example, if the number of butterflies increases, then the health of the ecosystem is most likely also improving. However, if the number of butterflies decreases, then this is a sign that the ecosystem is in trouble.

The Expedition

Dr. Vu Van Lien, an entomologist, is leading a study of the butterfly population in the Tam Dao National Park. This study has spanned over ten years and is responsible for the identification of new butterfly species nearly every year. If you decide to join this expedition you will spend a great deal of your time in the field counting caterpillars, cocoons and butterflies. You will be asked to make notes, take photographs and gather other pieces of data in the field and report back to the field station. Since the flora and fauna of Vietnam are still relatively unknown, there is a good chance that you may discover an entirely new species. When you are not working in the field, you will be able to explore the area on your own, bird watch, go hiking, tour waterfalls and other naturally beautiful sites, as well as visit local villages and towns to shop and have a drink.

Joining the Expedition